Page 92 of His Arranged Wife
The possessiveness in his tone sent heat pooling low in her belly.
They made their rounds, greeting guests, accepting congratulations on the foundation's work. Kritika was there, looking beautiful in a blue gown, but her smile didn't quite reach her eyes when she saw Samarth and Nimisha together.
Saroj was in her element, playing hostess, though Nimisha noticed her mother-in-law's gaze lingering on them with something like confusion.
Her son was being attentive to his wife. Publicly. Possessively.
It was unprecedented.
"Mr. and Mrs. Ranawat," a politician Nimisha didn't recognize approached. "Wonderful event. The foundation does incredible work."
"Thank you," Samarth replied smoothly.
"And Mrs. Ranawat, you look radiant. Your husband is a lucky man."
Samarth's hand on her waist tightened almost imperceptibly. "I'm aware."
The man laughed, not noticing the edge in Samarth's tone. "I was just telling my wife, we should—"
But Nimisha had stopped listening.
Because across the room, she'd seen Kabir.
He was dressed impeccably, playing the part of the perfect fiancé, standing beside Tanisha.
But his eyes were on Nimisha.
Hungry. Possessive. Wanting.
She shivered.
Samarth noticed immediately. "What's wrong?"
"Nothing. Just cold."
His eyes followed her gaze, landing on Kabir. His expression went deadly.
"Excuse us," he said to the politician, already moving Nimisha toward a different section of the ballroom.
They spent the next hour never staying in one place long enough for Kabir to approach. Samarth kept his hand on her at all times—her back, her waist, her hand. Claiming her in a way he never had before.
And she loved it.
Hated herself for loving it, but couldn't help it.
The Auction - 10:15 PM
The charity auction was the highlight of the evening. Expensive items donated by wealthy patrons, with all proceeds going to the foundation.
Nimisha watched with mild interest as a painting by a famous contemporary artist went for two crore rupees.
Then the auctioneer presented a sculpture—a beautiful bronze piece depicting two dancers in an intimate embrace.
Nimisha's breath caught. It was stunning.
"Do you like it?" Samarth murmured in her ear.
"It's beautiful."
